You must have JavaScript enabled in your browser settings to use the smartraveller.gov.au web site

JavaScript allows many of the interactive and dynamic features of this website to operate correctly and efficiently.

Most browsers come with JavaScript already enabled, however if for some reason JavaScript is disabled in your browser you
can enable it by changing your browser settings.
For instructions on how to do this, visit your browser's website and
search for the term "enable JavaScript".

Summary

There is a threat of terrorist attack. There were two terrorist shooting incidents in Copenhagen in February 2015. Terrorists are likely to continue planning attacks. Denmark's domestic terror threat level is 'significant'. Be alert in public places such as shopping areas, places of worship, sporting venues, public transport, airports and other transport hubs, and places of mass gathering. See ​Safety and security.

There have been gang war related shootings in north-west Copenhagen. Police have increased their presence in the area in recent months, and have established visitation areas where random searches may take place. See ​Safety and security.

Professional pickpocketing is on the rise, particularly in Copenhagen. Remain alert in crowds, tourist areas, public transport and near ATMs. See ​Safety and security.

Temporary border controls are in place. ID checks apply at land and sea borders. Carry your passport and/or Danish residency permit when entering and exiting Denmark. See
Entry and exit.

Entry and exit

Visas

Denmark is part of the Schengen Area, along with a number of other European countries. This allows you to enter Denmark without a visa in some circumstances. Read the Smartraveller
Schengen Convention bulletin before you leave Australia.

As visa and other entry and exit conditions (such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations) can change at short notice, contact the nearest
Embassy or Consulate of Denmark for the most up-to-date information.

Other formalities

In January 2016, Denmark reintroduced temporary border controls at some borders, particularly ports with ferry connections to Sweden, Germany and at the Danish-German land border. Sweden has similar controls in place. Ensure you carry your passport and/or Danish residency permit when entering and exiting.

Passport

Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date you intend to return to Australia and has at least two blank pages.

Your passport is a valuable document and attractive to criminals who may try to use your identity to commit crimes. Always keep it in a safe place.

Be aware of attempts to obtain access to your passport by deception. If you are forced to hand over your passport, contact the Embassy for advice.

If your passport is lost or stolen, you must notify the Australian Government as soon as possible.

Money

The currency is the Danish Krone (DKK). Declare all local and foreign currencies in excess of 10,000 Euros. The Euro is only accepted in larger international shops and hotels. Automated teller machines are reasonably common and credit cards are accepted in most places. Check your credit card has 'chip and PIN' technology, as many hotels, restaurants and shops require this.

Safety and security

Terrorism

Denmark set its terror threat level at 'significant'. In January 2018, the Danish Security and Intelligence Service (PET) warned that there are individuals with the intent and capability to commit terrorist attacks, but that the overall risk of an attack is limited.

There were two terrorist shooting incidents in Copenhagen in 2015. In recent years, a number of individuals have been arrested in Denmark on suspicion of planning terrorist attacks. Security measures have been enhanced since the 13 November 2015 attacks in Paris. Terrorists are likely to continue planning attacks targeting Denmark.

Terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities. Targets have included aviation, public transport and transport hubs, sporting venues and places of mass gathering, including those frequented by foreigners. In addition, a number of planned attacks have been disrupted by European security services in recent years, including in Denmark.

Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places

Report any suspicious activity or items to police.

Keep an eye on the news for any new or emerging threats.

Take official warnings seriously and follow the instructions of local authorities.

If there is an attack, leave the affected area immediately if it is safe to do so.

Crime

There is a low rate of serious crime. However, pick-pocketing is on the rise in tourist areas, hotel lobbies and on public transport in and around Copenhagen. Pickpockets and purse snatchers sometimes work together to target individuals.

There is some gang-related crime in Copenhagen. In the area of Christiania in Copenhagen, there have been disturbances and confrontations with authorities. There was a shooting incident in August 2016 with two police officers critically injured. There is also a strict 'no photography' policy in the neighbourhood of Christiania. Tourists have been assaulted and/or robbed for taking photographs.

Take care of your personal belongings, particularly on public transport and in key tourist locations such as national landmarks, museums, railway stations, restaurants and other public places.

Carry passports and other valuable possessions on your person, rather than in a bag.

Do not take photos in Christiania.

Civil unrest and political tension

Isolated incidents of civil disturbance have occurred, particularly in the tourist area of Christiania in Copenhagen. Though rare, demonstrations and large public gatherings can turn violent.

Keep an eye on the news and plan your movements to avoid any possible or actual protests, rallies or demonstrations. If you are in an area affected by unrest, follow the advice of local authorities.

Local travel

Road travel

When driving, keep your headlights on at all times. Roads can be dangerous in winter due to icy conditions. Use winter tyres, even though they are not legally required.

Cyclists are very common and there are thousands of kilometres of dedicated cycle paths and lanes. If you’re driving, check cycle lanes before turning across cycle lanes as cyclists may have the right of way. Check for cyclists when opening your car door. If you’re walking, be careful not to walk on cycle lanes due to a high risk of collisions. More information:

Motorcycles

Check with your travel insurer whether your policy covers you when using a motorcycle, quad bike or similar vehicle. Your policy may not cover you for accidents that occur while using these vehicles. Wear, and ensure your passenger wears, a correctly fastened and approved helmet.

Taxis

Use only officially marked taxis.

Public transport

Public transport is efficient and of a high standard.

Sea travel

Cruise ships depart daily from Copenhagen. It is a hub for cruise travel to the Baltic region as well as further afield to the Arctic. Check the operational experience and reputation of cruise operators. Check the standard of on-board medical facilities. Your destination might be remote from search and rescue, evacuation and medical facilities.

Ensure you have appropriate travel insurance specific to the type of travel you are undertaking, and covering any pre-existing medical conditions.

Air safety

The Australian Government does not provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths. See the
Aviation Safety Network website for information on aviation safety in Denmark.

Dual nationals

Health

Travel insurance

Take out comprehensive travel insurance before you depart to cover overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation.

Remember, regardless of how healthy and fit you are, if you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. The Australian Government will not pay for your medical expenses overseas or medical evacuation costs. This can be very expensive and cost you many thousands of dollars upfront.

Confirm:

what circumstances and activities are and are not covered under your policy

Medication

Not all medications available over the counter or by prescription in Australia are available in other countries. Some may be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

Before you leave Australia, check if your medication is legal in each country you're travelling to. Find out if any quantity restrictions or certification requirements apply. Consult your doctor about alternatives well in advance of travel

Take enough legal prescription medicine with you to last for the duration of your stay so you remain in good health. Carry copies of your prescription and a dated letter from your doctor stating what the medicine is, how much you'll take and that it's for personal use only.

Medical facilities

The standard of medical facilities is comparable with Australia. Main hospitals are located in Copenhagen, Aarhus and the Odense area. English is widely spoken.

There is no reciprocal health care agreement. Costs are comparable with or more expensive than private treatment in Australia. Emergency hospital treatment is usually free but the patient is responsible for follow-up costs.

Natural disasters

Severe weather can have an impact on your travel overseas. Monitor local media for up-to-date information.

Where to get help

Depending on what you need, your best option may be to first contact your family, friends, travel agent, travel insurance provider, employer, or airline. Your travel insurer should have a 24 hour emergency number.